A bibliometric review of peripherally inserted central catheters: Knowledge domain mapping and research trends

BACKGROUND: Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are commonly used vascular access devices in clinical practice. Due to their numerous advantages, PICCs are widely used globally. However, after decades of iteration and clinical application, while benefiting patients, PICCs also face new opportunities and challenges. Therefore, this study systematically analyzes the current status of global PICCs research through bibliometric methods and predicts future research directions and hotspots, aiming to provide references for further development and innovation of PICCs. METHODS: CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the bibliometrix R-package were used to perform descriptive statistics and data visualization analyses on literature from the Web of Science Core Collection. A total of 2102 articles were selected, originating from 2722 institutions across 105 countries. RESULTS: The United States has the greatest influence in the field of PICC research, with the Michigan Health System being the most prolific institution, and Vineet Chopra being the most influential scholar. Keyword and co-citation analysis reveal hot topics: PICC catheterization techniques, complications, and clinical quality control of PICCs. CONCLUSION: Research on PICCs is showing trends of global collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches. Artificial intelligence and other medical auxiliary technologies demonstrate great potential in addressing PICC complications and insertion challenges. Establishing efficient vascular access teams and solving PICC care issues based on evidence-based practices are crucial for ensuring quality control during PICC usage.